Single Idea 14474

[catalogued under 19. Language / B. Reference / 3. Direct Reference / b. Causal reference]

Full Idea

Pure causal theories of reference face the 'qua problem' - that it may be radically indeterminate what the term refers to unless there is some very basic concept of what sort of thing is being referred to.

Gist of Idea

Pure causal theories of reference have the 'qua problem', of what sort of things is being referred to

Source

Amie L. Thomasson (Ordinary Objects [2007], 02.3)

Book Reference

Thomasson,Amie L.: 'Ordinary Objects' [OUP 2010], p.38


A Reaction

She cites Dummett and Wiggins on this. There is an obvious problem that when I say 'look at that!' there are all sorts of conventions at work if my reference is to succeed.